WASHINGTON — July has been so hot thus far that scientists calculate that this month will be the hottest globally on record and likely the warmest human civilization has seen, even though there are several days left to sweat through.
The World Meteorological Organization and the European Union’s Copernicus Climate Change Service on Thursday proclaimed July’s heat is beyond record-smashing. They said Earth’s temperature has been temporarily passing over a key warming threshold: the internationally accepted goal of limiting global warming to 1.5 degree Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit).
Temperatures were 1.5 degrees warmer than pre-industrial times for a record 16 days this month, but the Paris climate accord aims to keep the 20- or 30-year global temperature average to 1.5 degrees. A few days of temporarily beating that threshold have happened before, but never in July.
Ross D. Franklin
FILE - The City of Phoenix Heat Response Program team volunteers Natalie Boyd, left, and David Coughenour, right, prepare heat relief kits for the public in need July 20, 2023, in Phoenix. July has been so hot so far that scientists calculate that this month will be the hottest globally on record and likely the warmest human civilization has seen, even though there are several days left to sweat. (AP Photo/Ross D. Franklin, File)
July has been so off-the-charts hot with heat waves blistering three continents – North America, Europe and Asia – that researchers said a record was inevitable. The U.S. Southwest’s all-month heat wave is showing no signs of stopping while also pushing into most of the Midwest and East with more than 128 million Americans under some kind of heat advisory Thursday.
“Unless an ice age were to appear all of sudden out of nothing, it is basically virtually certain we will break the record for the warmest July on record and the warmest month on record,” Copernicus Director Carlo Buontempo told The Associated Press.
Scientists say that such shattering of heat records is a harbinger for future climate-altering changes as the planet warms. Those changes go beyond just prolonged heat waves and include more flooding, longer-burning wildfires and extreme weather events that put many people at risk.
United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres pointed to the calculations and urged world leaders, in particular of rich nations, to do more to reduce emissions of heat-trapping gases. Despite years of international climate negotiations and lofty pledges from many countries and companies, greenhouse gas emissions continue to go up.
“Climate change is here. It is terrifying. And it is just the beginning,” Guterres told reporters in a New York briefing. “The era of global warming has ended; the era of global boiling has arrived.”
Buontempo and other scientists said the records are from human-caused climate change augmented by a natural El Nino warming of parts of the central Pacific that changes weather worldwide. But Buontempo said ocean warming in the Atlantic also has been so high — though far away from the El Nino — that’s there’s even more at play. While scientists long predicted the world would continue to warm and have bouts of extreme weather, he said he was surprised by the spike in ocean temperatures and record-shattering loss of sea ice in Antarctica.
“The climate seems to be going crazy at times,” Buontempo said.
Andrew Medichini
FILE - Tourists use umbrellas to shelter as they visit Rome, July 22, 2023. July has been so hot so far that scientists calculate that this month will be the hottest globally on record and likely the warmest human civilization has seen, even though there are several days left to sweat. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini, File)
Copernicus calculated that through the first 23 days of July, Earth’s temperature averaged 16.95 degrees Celsius ( 62.5 degrees Fahrenheit). That’s nearly one-third of a degree Celsius (almost 0.6 degrees Fahrenheit) hotter than the previous record for the hottest month, July 2019.
Normally records are broken by hundredths of a degree Celsius, maybe a tenth at most, said Russell Vose, climate analysis group director for the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
Usually records aren’t calculated until a week or longer after a month’s end. But Vose, who wasn’t part of the research, his NASA record-keeping counterpart Gavin Schmidt and six other outside scientists said the Copernicus calculations make sense.
Buontempo’s team found that 21 of the first 23 days of July were hotter than any previous days in the database.
Gregory Bull
FILE - A man, who is homeless, drinks water as he wears a wet towel on his head, given to him by Maribel Padilla of the Brown Bag Coalition, July 20, 2023, in Calexico, Calif. Once temperatures hit 113 degrees Fahrenheit (45 Celsius), Padilla and the Brown Bag Coalition meet up with people who are homeless in Calexico, providing them with a cold, wet towel, and some refreshments to help them endure the scorching temperatures. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull, File)
“The last few weeks have been rather remarkable and unprecedented in our record” based on data that goes back to the 1940s, Buontempo said.
Both the WMO-Copernicus team and an independent German scientist who released his data at the same time came to these conclusions by analyzing forecasts, live observations, past records and computer simulations.
Separate from Copernicus, Karsten Haustein at Leipzig University did his own calculations, using forecasts that show at best the warming may weaken a tad at the end of month, and came to the conclusion that July 2023 will pass the old record by 0.2 degrees Celsius (.36 degrees Fahrenheit).
“It’s way beyond everything we see,” Haustein said in his own press briefing. “We are in absolutely new record territory.”
Anis Belghoul
FILE - A woman from Niger carries her baby and a bottle of water on her head, July 8, 2023. July has been so hot so far that scientists calculate that this month will be the hottest globally on record and likely the warmest human civilization has seen, even though there are several days left to sweat. (AP Photo/Anis Belghoul, File)
Haustein said even though records only go back to the middle of the 19th century, using tree rings, ice cores and other proxies he calculates that this month is the hottest in about 120,000 years, which Buontempo said makes sense. Other scientists have made similar calculations.
“The reason that setting new temperature records is a big deal is that we are now being challenged to find ways to survive through temperatures hotter than any of us have ever experienced before,” University of Wisconsin-Madison climate scientist Andrea Dutton said in an email. “Soaring temperatures place ever increasing strains not just on power grids and infrastructure, but on human bodies that are not equipped to survive some of the extreme heat we are already experiencing.”
It’s no accident that the hottest July on record has brought deadly heat waves in the U.S. and Mexico, China and southern Europe, smoke-causing wildfires and heavy floods worldwide, said Imperial College of London climate scientist Friederike Otto.
Andy Wong
FILE - A boy wearing a military uniform drinks water as he and his schoolmates take part in a tour activities on a sweltering day in Beijing, July 25, 2023. July has been so hot so far that scientists calculate that this month will be the hottest globally on record and likely the warmest human civilization has seen, even though there are several days left to sweat. (AP Photo/Andy Wong, File)
The average temperature being measured is like “the fever temperature that we measure for our planet,” Otto said.
“We are in uncharted territory as far as humans on this planet are concerned, so our records are falling with increasing frequency and that’s exactly what we expect to — and what we’ve been predicting would — happen,” said Texas Tech climate scientist Katharine Hayhoe.
In the middle of some of the worst heat, where Phoenix is now at a record 27 straight days and counting of 110 degrees or higher temperatures, University of Arizona climate scientist Katharine Jacobs said the records are giving humanity a message about reducing emissions of heat-trapping gases from the burning of coal, oil and natural gas.
“Events like this are signposts along a highway we don’t want to travel,” Jacobs said in an email. “It is time to stop playing political games and get serious in order to protect ourselves and future generations.
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July has been so blistering hot, scientists already calculate that it’s the warmest month on record
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As the scorching heat of summer settles in, it not only brings along beach trips and barbecues but also a unique set of challenges for car owners. Hot weather can take a toll on our vehicles, causing a range of car issues that can turn a pleasant drive into a frustrating experience. Way.com has explored the common problems cars face during hot weather and provides practical tips on how to combat them effectively. So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready to discover the secrets of keeping your car cool and cruising smoothly under the scorching summer sun!
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As the scorching heat of summer settles in, it not only brings along beach trips and barbecues but also a unique set of challenges for car owners. Hot weather can take a toll on our vehicles, causing a range of car issues that can turn a pleasant drive into a frustrating experience. Way.com has explored the common problems cars face during hot weather and provides practical tips on how to combat them effectively. So, fasten your seatbelts and get ready to discover the secrets of keeping your car cool and cruising smoothly under the scorching summer sun!
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July has been so blistering hot, scientists already calculate that it’s the warmest month on record
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The relentless summer heat can push your car's engine to its limits, resulting in the dreaded problem of overheating. This issue arises when the cooling system fails to regulate the engine's temperature, leading to potential damage and even engine failure. Several factors can cause this problem:
Insufficient coolant levels
Inadequate coolant levels are a primary culprit behind engine overheating. It is crucial to regularly check and top up the coolant levels to ensure optimal performance. Additionally, the coolant should be replaced as recommended by the manufacturer.
Faulty radiator
A malfunctioning radiator can hinder the engine's cooling process, exacerbating the risk of overheating. Leaks, clogs, or damaged radiator fins can impede the flow of coolant, causing the engine to overheat. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and rectify any radiator issues.
Worn-out belts and hoses
As temperatures rise, belts and hoses in your car's cooling system can become brittle and prone to damage. Cracked or loose belts, as well as deteriorated hoses, can lead to coolant leaks and reduced cooling efficiency. Regular inspections and timely replacements are essential to prevent such issues.
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The relentless summer heat can push your car's engine to its limits, resulting in the dreaded problem of overheating. This issue arises when the cooling system fails to regulate the engine's temperature, leading to potential damage and even engine failure. Several factors can cause this problem:
Insufficient coolant levels
Inadequate coolant levels are a primary culprit behind engine overheating. It is crucial to regularly check and top up the coolant levels to ensure optimal performance. Additionally, the coolant should be replaced as recommended by the manufacturer.
Faulty radiator
A malfunctioning radiator can hinder the engine's cooling process, exacerbating the risk of overheating. Leaks, clogs, or damaged radiator fins can impede the flow of coolant, causing the engine to overheat. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and rectify any radiator issues.
Worn-out belts and hoses
As temperatures rise, belts and hoses in your car's cooling system can become brittle and prone to damage. Cracked or loose belts, as well as deteriorated hoses, can lead to coolant leaks and reduced cooling efficiency. Regular inspections and timely replacements are essential to prevent such issues.
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July has been so blistering hot, scientists already calculate that it’s the warmest month on record
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Regular maintenance
Schedule routine check-ups to identify any underlying issues before they escalate. Inspect coolant levels, radiator condition, and water pump functionality.
Keep your car hydrated
Always make sure that your car has a sufficient coolant supply. Remember to use the recommended coolant type for your vehicle.
Clean radiator fins regularly
Remove dirt and debris from the radiator fins regularly. This will enhance airflow and improve cooling efficiency.
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Regular maintenance
Schedule routine check-ups to identify any underlying issues before they escalate. Inspect coolant levels, radiator condition, and water pump functionality.
Keep your car hydrated
Always make sure that your car has a sufficient coolant supply. Remember to use the recommended coolant type for your vehicle.
Clean radiator fins regularly
Remove dirt and debris from the radiator fins regularly. This will enhance airflow and improve cooling efficiency.
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July has been so blistering hot, scientists already calculate that it’s the warmest month on record
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While escaping the blistering heat by entering your car, you expect to find solace in a cool, refreshing environment. However, air conditioning (A/C) problems often arise during hot weather, leaving you sweltering inside the vehicle. Several factors can contribute to A/C troubles:
Refrigerant leaks
Refrigerant leaks are a common cause of A/C malfunction. Over time, the seals and hoses in the A/C system can degrade, leading to refrigerant leakage. A low refrigerant level will result in diminished cooling performance. If you notice a decline in A/C effectiveness, it is advisable to have your system inspected and recharged, if necessary.
Faulty compressor
The A/C compressor is responsible for compressing and circulating the refrigerant. However, a malfunctioning compressor can hinder the cooling process. Unusual noises, lack of cool air, or warm air blowing from the vents are indicators of a faulty compressor. Timely repair or replacement is crucial to restore A/C functionality.
Clogged condenser
The A/C condenser, located in the front of the car, can accumulate debris, dirt, and bugs during hot weather. This build-up restricts airflow, reducing the condenser's ability to dissipate heat. Regularly cleaning the condenser can prevent clogs and ensure efficient A/C operation.
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While escaping the blistering heat by entering your car, you expect to find solace in a cool, refreshing environment. However, air conditioning (A/C) problems often arise during hot weather, leaving you sweltering inside the vehicle. Several factors can contribute to A/C troubles:
Refrigerant leaks
Refrigerant leaks are a common cause of A/C malfunction. Over time, the seals and hoses in the A/C system can degrade, leading to refrigerant leakage. A low refrigerant level will result in diminished cooling performance. If you notice a decline in A/C effectiveness, it is advisable to have your system inspected and recharged, if necessary.
Faulty compressor
The A/C compressor is responsible for compressing and circulating the refrigerant. However, a malfunctioning compressor can hinder the cooling process. Unusual noises, lack of cool air, or warm air blowing from the vents are indicators of a faulty compressor. Timely repair or replacement is crucial to restore A/C functionality.
Clogged condenser
The A/C condenser, located in the front of the car, can accumulate debris, dirt, and bugs during hot weather. This build-up restricts airflow, reducing the condenser's ability to dissipate heat. Regularly cleaning the condenser can prevent clogs and ensure efficient A/C operation.
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July has been so blistering hot, scientists already calculate that it’s the warmest month on record
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Hot weather not only affects the mechanical components of your car but also takes a toll on the interior. Here's how the sun can transform your vehicle into an oven:
Faded dashboard
The sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can fade and deteriorate your car's dashboard, causing it to lose its luster. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can also lead to cracking and warping of interior surfaces.
Sweltering steering wheels and seats
Leaving your car parked under the scorching sun can turn your steering wheel and seats into heat magnets. When you return, you're greeted with surfaces that can scorch your hands and cause discomfort during your journey.
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Hot weather not only affects the mechanical components of your car but also takes a toll on the interior. Here's how the sun can transform your vehicle into an oven:
Faded dashboard
The sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can fade and deteriorate your car's dashboard, causing it to lose its luster. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can also lead to cracking and warping of interior surfaces.
Sweltering steering wheels and seats
Leaving your car parked under the scorching sun can turn your steering wheel and seats into heat magnets. When you return, you're greeted with surfaces that can scorch your hands and cause discomfort during your journey.
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July has been so blistering hot, scientists already calculate that it’s the warmest month on record
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Shade is your ally
Whenever possible, park your car in shaded areas to reduce direct exposure to the sun. Utilize sunshades or windshield covers to shield your dashboard from harmful UV rays.
Seat covers and steering wheel wraps
Invest in seat covers and steering wheel wraps made from materials designed to resist heat. These accessories act as barriers, preventing direct contact between the scorching surfaces and your hands or body.
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Shade is your ally
Whenever possible, park your car in shaded areas to reduce direct exposure to the sun. Utilize sunshades or windshield covers to shield your dashboard from harmful UV rays.
Seat covers and steering wheel wraps
Invest in seat covers and steering wheel wraps made from materials designed to resist heat. These accessories act as barriers, preventing direct contact between the scorching surfaces and your hands or body.
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July has been so blistering hot, scientists already calculate that it’s the warmest month on record
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Hot weather poses challenges not only to the mechanical aspects of your car but also to the tires. The scorching pavement temperatures can lead to tire-related issues, including:
Underinflated tires
High temperatures cause the air inside your tires to expand, leading to increased pressure. If your tires are already underinflated, this expansion can push them beyond their recommended limits, increasing the risk of blowouts. Regularly check your tire pressure and maintain it according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
Overinflated tires
On the other hand, overinflated tires can be just as problematic. Overinflation reduces the tire's contact patch with the road, compromising traction and stability. It is crucial to monitor your tire pressure and adjust it as necessary to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Uneven tread wear
Extreme heat can accelerate tire wear, especially if your tires are already worn or improperly aligned. Uneven tread wear can diminish traction and handling, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Regularly inspect your tires for signs of wear and seek professional assistance to address alignment issues promptly.
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Hot weather poses challenges not only to the mechanical aspects of your car but also to the tires. The scorching pavement temperatures can lead to tire-related issues, including:
Underinflated tires
High temperatures cause the air inside your tires to expand, leading to increased pressure. If your tires are already underinflated, this expansion can push them beyond their recommended limits, increasing the risk of blowouts. Regularly check your tire pressure and maintain it according to the manufacturer's guidelines.
Overinflated tires
On the other hand, overinflated tires can be just as problematic. Overinflation reduces the tire's contact patch with the road, compromising traction and stability. It is crucial to monitor your tire pressure and adjust it as necessary to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Uneven tread wear
Extreme heat can accelerate tire wear, especially if your tires are already worn or improperly aligned. Uneven tread wear can diminish traction and handling, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Regularly inspect your tires for signs of wear and seek professional assistance to address alignment issues promptly.
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July has been so blistering hot, scientists already calculate that it’s the warmest month on record
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Proper inflation
Check your tire pressure regularly and adjust it according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Avoid overinflation, especially during hot weather.
Rotate and balance
Regularly rotate and balance your tires to ensure even wear. This will extend their lifespan and enhance overall performance.
Tire maintenance
Regularly inspect your tires for signs of wear and tear. Replace them promptly if necessary to maintain optimal safety and performance.
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Proper inflation
Check your tire pressure regularly and adjust it according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Avoid overinflation, especially during hot weather.
Rotate and balance
Regularly rotate and balance your tires to ensure even wear. This will extend their lifespan and enhance overall performance.
Tire maintenance
Regularly inspect your tires for signs of wear and tear. Replace them promptly if necessary to maintain optimal safety and performance.
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July has been so blistering hot, scientists already calculate that it’s the warmest month on record
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What are the signs of an overheating engine?
Some common signs of an overheating engine include an increase in the temperature gauge, steam or smoke coming from the hood, a strong smell of coolant, and a loss of engine power. If you notice any of these signs, it's important to pull over and address the issue immediately.
How can I prevent my car's engine from overheating in hot weather?
To prevent engine overheating, ensure that your coolant levels are adequate and regularly check and replace the coolant as recommended. It's also important to maintain a properly functioning radiator, inspect and replace worn-out belts and hoses, and avoid driving in extreme heat for prolonged periods.
Why is my car's air conditioning not cooling properly in hot weather?
There are several reasons why your car's A/C may not be cooling properly during hot weather. Common culprits include refrigerant leaks, a faulty compressor, or a clogged condenser. It's best to have your A/C system inspected by a professional to diagnose and address the issue.
Can hot weather cause tire blowouts?
Yes, hot weather can contribute to tire blowouts. When the temperature rises, the air inside the tires expands, increasing pressure. If your tires are already underinflated, this can push them beyond their recommended limits, leading to a blowout. Proper tire maintenance, including regular pressure checks, can help prevent this issue.
How often should I check my tire pressure in hot weather?
It's recommended to check your tire pressure at least once a month, regardless of the weather conditions. However, during hot weather, it's a good idea to check your tire pressure more frequently, as the heat can impact tire pressure more significantly.
What should I do if my car's tires have uneven tread wear due to hot weather?
If you notice uneven tread wear on your tires, it's important to have them inspected and addressed promptly. Uneven tread wear can affect traction and handling, compromising safety. A professional can determine the cause of the uneven wear, such as misalignment or worn-out tires, and recommend the necessary repairs or replacements.
Are there any specific precautions I should take when driving in hot weather?
Yes, when driving in hot weather, it's advisable to keep an eye on your car's temperature gauge, monitor the performance of your A/C system, and pay attention to any unusual sounds or smells. Additionally, it's essential to stay hydrated, carry extra water for both yourself and your car, and avoid leaving children or pets unattended in a parked vehicle.
Can extreme heat affect other components of my car apart from the engine and tires?
Yes, extreme heat can affect various components of your car, including the battery, belts, hoses, and even the interior. High temperatures can accelerate battery fluid evaporation and lead to belt and hose degradation. Additionally, excessive heat can cause the interior materials, such as the dashboard and seats, to become hot and prone to cracking or fading. Taking preventive measures and providing proper care can help mitigate these effects.
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What are the signs of an overheating engine?
Some common signs of an overheating engine include an increase in the temperature gauge, steam or smoke coming from the hood, a strong smell of coolant, and a loss of engine power. If you notice any of these signs, it's important to pull over and address the issue immediately.
How can I prevent my car's engine from overheating in hot weather?
To prevent engine overheating, ensure that your coolant levels are adequate and regularly check and replace the coolant as recommended. It's also important to maintain a properly functioning radiator, inspect and replace worn-out belts and hoses, and avoid driving in extreme heat for prolonged periods.
Why is my car's air conditioning not cooling properly in hot weather?
There are several reasons why your car's A/C may not be cooling properly during hot weather. Common culprits include refrigerant leaks, a faulty compressor, or a clogged condenser. It's best to have your A/C system inspected by a professional to diagnose and address the issue.
Can hot weather cause tire blowouts?
Yes, hot weather can contribute to tire blowouts. When the temperature rises, the air inside the tires expands, increasing pressure. If your tires are already underinflated, this can push them beyond their recommended limits, leading to a blowout. Proper tire maintenance, including regular pressure checks, can help prevent this issue.
How often should I check my tire pressure in hot weather?
It's recommended to check your tire pressure at least once a month, regardless of the weather conditions. However, during hot weather, it's a good idea to check your tire pressure more frequently, as the heat can impact tire pressure more significantly.
What should I do if my car's tires have uneven tread wear due to hot weather?
If you notice uneven tread wear on your tires, it's important to have them inspected and addressed promptly. Uneven tread wear can affect traction and handling, compromising safety. A professional can determine the cause of the uneven wear, such as misalignment or worn-out tires, and recommend the necessary repairs or replacements.
Are there any specific precautions I should take when driving in hot weather?
Yes, when driving in hot weather, it's advisable to keep an eye on your car's temperature gauge, monitor the performance of your A/C system, and pay attention to any unusual sounds or smells. Additionally, it's essential to stay hydrated, carry extra water for both yourself and your car, and avoid leaving children or pets unattended in a parked vehicle.
Can extreme heat affect other components of my car apart from the engine and tires?
Yes, extreme heat can affect various components of your car, including the battery, belts, hoses, and even the interior. High temperatures can accelerate battery fluid evaporation and lead to belt and hose degradation. Additionally, excessive heat can cause the interior materials, such as the dashboard and seats, to become hot and prone to cracking or fading. Taking preventive measures and providing proper care can help mitigate these effects.
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July has been so blistering hot, scientists already calculate that it’s the warmest month on record
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Hot weather can pose significant challenges for cars, leading to issues such as overheating engines, A/C troubles, and tire-related problems. However, by staying proactive and addressing these issues promptly, car owners can minimize the impact of hot weather on their vehicles.
Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and proper inspections are essential to ensure optimal performance and safety during the scorching summer months. So, keep these tips in mind, take good care of your car, and enjoy a hassle-free driving experience even in the hottest weather.
This story was produced by Way.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker Media.
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Hot weather can pose significant challenges for cars, leading to issues such as overheating engines, A/C troubles, and tire-related problems. However, by staying proactive and addressing these issues promptly, car owners can minimize the impact of hot weather on their vehicles.
Regular maintenance, timely repairs, and proper inspections are essential to ensure optimal performance and safety during the scorching summer months. So, keep these tips in mind, take good care of your car, and enjoy a hassle-free driving experience even in the hottest weather.
This story was produced by Way.com and reviewed and distributed by Stacker Media.
